Izintaba Private Game Reserve – Bushbuck Cottage

This rugged clime, where you find very few tarred roads or human interference to mar your visit, is possibly one of the closest to an authentic African savannah experience one can find. The Waterberg is the first region in the north of South Africa identified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and the incredible rock formations in evidence were shaped over hundreds of millions of years by riverine erosion. This recognition goes some way to impart the beauty of this lesser known part of the country – its incredible scenery, often accentuated by late afternoon thunder storms, plummeting mountain gorges, clear streams, and rolling bushveld. That a group of Dutch travellers set on finding Jerusalem from Cape Town mistook the Waterberg for Egypt is understandable. A large portion of the Waterberg’s bushveld country has been given over to the conservation of elephants, white rhino, leopard and buffalo. Land owners have restored land overgrazed by cattle, to attract and protect antelope, giraffe, hippo and other species, with an accompanying rise in the trend of eco-tourism, and the marketing of the Waterberg as prime game country – the Marakele National Park, near Thabazimbi, is well worth a visit, as are other game farms in the area. The Waterberg has an extensive history with evidence of the first human ancestors as early as three million years ago. Closer to our history, the San, who produced beautiful rock paintings at Lapalala, entered the Waterberg about two thousand years ago.

With a variety of wildlife and habitats, stunning vistas, seasonal rivers and waterfalls, Izintaba is the perfect destination for those who love the outdoors and the freedom to enjoy the bush at their own pace. Pack your mountain bikes, walking shoes, fishing rods and binoculars for an activity-filled bush getaway, far from the stress of city life, or just bring a book and a bathing costume and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Waterberg bush. The reserve has over 40 mammal species including a variety of antelope and the elusive aardvark, bat-eared foxes and honey badger. With no dangerous animals on the property, it is safe to walk, hike and cycle on your own along the marked trails. Guests can also choose a guided game drive in a 4X4 vehicle with an experienced, knowledgeable ranger or use their own vehicles for their own private game drives. The Waterberg area is a bird-lover’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds found in the area, where you are bound to spot numerous bird varieties. Izintaba is perfect for families. Younger children will love the jungle gym, and children of all ages will enjoy the large swimming pool and boat on the dam, and the opportunity to have an up-close-and-personal bush experience. Accommodation is spacious, clean and comfortable. The seven cottages are fully-equipped for self-catering purposes and are comfortably furnished. Each cottage has a patio with views over the bushveld and private lapas and braai areas for al fresco dining. All the cottages have indoor fireplaces. Guests who don’t want to cook can choose to eat breakfast or dinner in the dining room, where the delicious menus include a 3-course dinner, potjiekos and a traditional bush braai or barbecue. Izintaba, which means ‘a place in the mountains’ is blessed with a temperate climate all year round. Leave the city stress behind you and come and enjoy true peace and tranquility in the malaria-free Waterberg bush.

Children's play area Secured parking Free parking Outdoor Pool BBQ / picnic area Wi-Fi

Wifi Yes, public areas only